Kubota B and ST series compact tractors, opinions

[chrisisbd]

As noted in another thread we're looking to buy a (used) compact tractor to replace our ageing Iseki TU318 and a Kubute T1600H mower. Recently we have bought a Stiga 'out front' mower which deals with the lawns around the house, the new tractor will be for topping, harrowing, etc. of the remaining 9 acres.

I want something with more than 20hp, preferably 30'ish and with HST transmission. It will be used mostly for rough mowing (with a flail probably), pulling a chain harrow and general towing duties.

I seem to have narrowed things down to Kubota's ST series and, maybe recent B models (such as B2530). Does anyone have any experience, opinions, etc. on these models?

One thing I have been trying to find out is the difference between the Kubuta ST30 and the STa30 (sometimes ST alpha 30). I got a hint from one dealer that the STA series fix some sort of hydralic weakness in the ST30 but I can find out no more. Does anyone know anything about this?

I really hanker after a Kubota STV36 but can't quite afford it, will I be happy with an ST30 or STA30?

 

[sheepmatilda]

I have a stw 40 its a great tractor, stv was a good improvement on sta and would be a better buy. The B 2530 would also be ok the backend is smaller and no bi speed turn but better looking tractor

 

[Warp Land Farmer]

Hired a B2650 and flail last year, it was awesome.

 

[Dave W]

Won't go wrong with anything kubota. Don't think they've made a bad machine.
Have a think if you really need hst transmission. It saps a fair bit of power over manual and when you've not a lot of horses to start with you need to make them all count